“Don’t Really Care What They Say”: Jaden McDaniels Claps Back at Nuggets After Massive Game 3 Win for Timberwolves

Mar 1, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Christian Braun (0) defends on Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels (3) in the first quarter at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images ©Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Jaden McDaniels soared through the Nuggets defense for an emphatic jam. That was the statement to back up his explosive remarks from Game 2. The Timberwolves’ reliable forward answered the pressure he put on himself with 20 points and 10 rebounds to take a 2-1 series lead. But even without the words, McDaniels would be just as charged up. All he needs to see is the Nuggets jersey in front of him.

“Just playing Denver really motivates us. That’s enough for real. Just playing against them, we don’t really care what they say, just the number and the name across their chest make us play like this,” Jaden McDaniels said about his inspiring performance in Game 3.

It’s the third time the teams have faced off in the postseason in the last four years. Each has won a series apiece, this being a decider of sorts. So, McDaniels isn’t concerned about how the players feel about him talking loudly and making pointed comments. For him and the Timberwolves, this is a rivalry that, be it the regular season or the playoffs, will be intense from their side.

At least McDaniels continues to show it each time. He was doing it on both ends of the floor. “They put their second group in, and I was still picking up full court,” McDaniels added. Just watch his highlights when guarding Jamal Murray. From the time the possession started, the Timberwolves forward was right in his grill. Clearly, these matchups are personal for the dynamic wing.

That energy has translated over to his teammates. The Timberwolves got some major contributions across the board. Ayo Dosunmu added 23 points and 9 assists, offsetting Anthony Edwards’ short night due to foul trouble. Furthermore, Rudy Gobert proved a point by holding to shooting 7/26 from the field.